ENT Tips for Allergy-Proofing Your Home for Fall and Winter
Transitioning from one season to another doesn’t just make the air colder. Seasonal transitions also bring about seasonal allergies. While allergies are the last thing many people think about once they feel a change in the weather, it is unfortunately the first thing many allergy sufferers are concerned about.
Experiencing symptoms like frequent sneezing, nasal congestion, runny nose, headache, itchy and watery eyes, and a general feeling of tiredness just when the seasons are transitioning to fall or winter might be an indication that you are suffering from seasonal allergies.
Allergies in the Fall and Winter
Fall allergies are allergies caused by ragweed pollen. Ragweed is a common weed grown throughout the United States. It typically releases its allergy-causing pollen from August to November with peak pollen levels in early to mid-September. Mold is also a common source of allergies during the fall season. Mold releases spores that can travel for miles through the air, making it easy for allergy sufferers to inhale them.
Now you might be thinking, don’t allergies take a break during winter?
The answer is both yes and no. Yes, pollen allergies often stop in winter. But because most people are spending most of their days in the comfort of their homes, indoor allergies become more common than ever.
Indoor allergens that are common in winter include dust, dust mites, mold, pet dander, and cockroaches. The winter season also means that homeowners are keeping their homes tightly closed so as not to let any drafts in, keeping their homes warm and cozy through winter. While this is good news to help you save on energy bills, it’s not so good news when you realize it also means you’ll be stuck inside with a variety of allergens.
Not enough fresh air circulating indoors plus the dry quality of the air can further exacerbate sinus health issues.
Allergy-Proof Your Home With These Tips
Here are fool-proof ways to allergy-proof your home come fall and winter seasons:
1. Seal Gaps and Windows
In winter, you'll likely be keeping windows closed, but allergens can still find their way in through small gaps. Seal gaps around windows and doors with weatherstripping or caulk to prevent drafts and limit the entry of outdoor allergens like pollen and dust.
2. Use a HEPA Filter Vacuum
Dust mites and pet dander are common indoor allergens that can worsen during winter. Use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter to trap small particles and prevent them from becoming airborne again. Vacuum carpets, rugs, and upholstery regularly to reduce allergens.
3. Control Humidity Levels
Connecticut winters can be very dry, which can irritate your respiratory system and exacerbate allergy symptoms. Use a humidifier to maintain optimal indoor humidity levels (between 30-50%). This will help prevent dry air from aggravating allergies while also reducing the chances of mold growth.
4. Wash Bedding Weekly
Dust mites thrive in bedding, so wash sheets, pillowcases, and blankets in hot water once a week to kill any dust mites and remove allergens. Consider using allergen-proof covers for pillows and mattresses to provide an extra layer of protection.
5. Clean Air Ducts and Replace HVAC Filters
Cold weather means your heating system will be running more frequently, which can stir up dust and allergens. Have your air ducts cleaned and replace HVAC filters with HEPA filters before winter starts to improve the quality of the air circulating through your home.
6. Remove Mold Sources
Mold thrives in damp areas, especially during the winter months when your home is more likely to be closed off. Check areas like bathrooms, basements, and kitchens for mold, and clean any visible growth with a mold-killing solution. Fix leaks and use dehumidifiers to control moisture.
7. Keep Pet Dander in Check
Pets may spend more time indoors during the winter, which can increase pet dander in the home. Bathe and groom your pets regularly to reduce shedding and dander. If possible, keep pets out of bedrooms, and wash pet bedding frequently.
8. Minimize Use of Scented Products
Many winter fragrances, such as candles and air fresheners, can irritate sensitive airways and trigger allergy symptoms. Minimize the use of scented products, and opt for unscented cleaning products and detergents to reduce irritants in your home.
Fall and Winter Sniffles? Let CT-ENT Help
While allergies aren’t necessarily considered medical emergencies, you might want to consult with your physician if your allergies are lasting longer than usual, you are experiencing worse symptoms than before, or your allergy meds seem to stop working.
At CT-ENT, our experts are committed to helping our patients manage their allergies and their many symptoms despite the changing weather and seasons. Schedule an appointment today and free yourself from pesky allergies!
